Growing up brings many things. Somewhere in between our careers, utility bills, and doing our own laundry are endless opportunities just waiting to be capitalized on. One of those opportunities is the ability to travel! Of course the decision to take off doesn’t always come easy due to money, family, career goals, and other factors. While those are all very important matters to consider and unique to each one of us, here are six benefits you can count on by choosing to travel:
Sights and sounds.
Traveling allows us the ability to go out and see just what our country is made of. The cacti and desert of the Southwest, the Rockies in Colorado and beyond, the swamps of the south, waterfalls in upstate New York, historic charm of the Northeast, and the beaches of California. Being a Nebraska native, traveling has exposed me to so many new (and beautiful) sights and sounds that I would have never experienced had I not chose to travel.
The food.
There really isn’t any additional explanation needed for this one – right? I mean food can usually speak for itself! But really – each region of the country has its own unique cuisine that is absolutely worth trying. You’ll likely find yourself trying things you would have never dreamed of! For me it was charbroiled oysters in New Orleans, Louisiana.
It diversifies us.
Immersing ourselves into new cities and states exposes us to new environments. This means new people, new cultures, and new traditions. Sometimes it may seem like a completely different way of life. Through these experiences, travel allows us to broaden our perspective and learn to understand, value, and appreciate things that would otherwise be ‘out of the ordinary’.
It enhances our resumes.
This might seem like an odd one, but it’s so true! Traveling builds so many skills that will translate to future career success. Having the ability to adapt to changing environments, communicate with diverse populations, solve problems that may arise along the way, and gain valuable experience that enriches your overall knowledge, skills, and abilities.
It is FUN!
Traveling can ignite a sense of adventure within us. Who doesn’t love a great adventure? Roller coasters at Disney, Honky Tonk dance halls in Nashville, ghost tours in Charleston…you name it, you’ll find it!
Lasting memories.
All of these things compiled together give us stories to tell for the rest of our lives. Some may be life lessons, others may be hilarious coincidences. Whether you choose to document simply in your heart and mind, or take pictures and journal along the way, you’ll be able to reflect upon and share your stories with others for years to come.
